Sincerely, Jayvee

06

The college split our paths, and we went our separate ways. You pursued your dream of becoming a chef, while I immersed myself in medical studies.

Our busy schedules kept us occupied, leaving little room for anything beyond academic obligations. I buried myself in coursework and lectures, trying to move on from my feelings.

Slowly, we drifted apart, and we rarely had a conversation-mostly short and dry.

'Happy birthday, Abby!'I messaged, adding a cake emoji and a brief wish.

Then I waited.

An hour passed. Silence.

Two hours. Still nothing.

Three hours. Are you busy?

Four hours. No signal?

Five hours. Hmm?

Six hours. You're online-haven't you received my message?

It took seven hours before you finally replied with a simple, 'Thanks.'

'I hope you're well,' I responded, and that was the extent of our conversation.

But what if I stayed closer? What if I had reached out more often?